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"It seems like just yesterday we were planning the first Texas Folklife Festival, which was modeled after the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, D.C.," said Jo Ann Andera, Texas Folklife Festival director. "There are 18 ethnic groups who are celebrating 35 years, and another 18 that are celebrating between 29 and 34 years at the festival. This continuity and dedication of the participants is what makes this celebration so special."

TFF was developed to pay tribute to the Lone Star State's original pioneers who came from a wide range of cultures. As the signature event of UTSA's Institute of Texan Cultures, the festival brings together more than 70,000 people to celebrate Texas' many cultural traditions. Visitors can revel in a smorgasbord of ethnic foods, world music, traditional folk dance, artistic demonstrations and crafts at this family reunion of cultures.

At UTSA, purchase discounted tickets at the 1604 Campus at Fiscal Services windows (John Peace Library Building Room 1.03.06 and Multidisciplinary Studies Building Room 1.02.32) and at the University Center information desk, across from the bookstore. Only cash is accepted at the information desk. At the Downtown Campus, purchase tickets at the Fiscal Services window, Frio Street Building Room 1.508.

Purchased at other venues, advance adult tickets are $8. Tickets are available through June 11 at the Texas Folklife Festival Web site or by calling (210) 458-2259. Advance tickets are available through June 11 at area H-E-B stores.

TFF hours are 5-11 p.m., Thursday, June 8 and Friday, June 9; noon-11 p.m., Saturday, June 10; and noon-9 p.m., Sunday, June 11.